Hiring Employees for an Online Store

You started an online shop, which is doing great, and now you want to hire help. The issues you face are similar to any other employer. You need something done and you need someone to do it.

But considerations may be slightly different than in a brick-and-mortar business, as the skills you'll require are likely to be distinct. For one thing, you need someone who is comfortable with technology while traditional sales skills, like making conversation, may be unnecessary. Let's consider some other important issues.

E-Commerce Business

The first thing you have to do is figure out what you need done and who you think could do it, in light of what you demand and are willing to pay and market conditions. Before you begin your search then, spend some time reading the competition's job descriptions.

Maybe you haven't thought of every aspect of the job, or maybe you're just checking because it never hurts to have information. Either way, looking at other companies' job descriptions and gauging your personal reactions to them will help you find your focus. This may also give you an idea of what people are willing to pay for the services you seek and how these are described.

Check Yourself

When you read job postings, check your gut. Who would you want to work for and how would that person describe a job on offer? That is how you should write your post.

Do not fill your posting with buzzwords and hope you are ringing the right bell. Write a clear, simple, accurate description of what you seek, and try to keep it brief. Applying for a job with you should not be a confusing or prohibitive process. You may put off discerning workers if your request seems disproportionate to what is on offer.

Virtual Flexibility

Your store is online so you can -- depending on the position you're looking to fill -- be more flexible about the kinds of things that traditional employers are more rigid about. Perhaps you can allow an employee to work from anywhere at any time. Compromising on some traditional demands allows you to ask for more as an employer, like paying someone less than you would if they had to commute to an office every day.

Still, you should make sure that you have a very clear idea of what you need and how you will ensure it is achieved, especially if you can't keep an eye on employees. If you have production or sales numbers, then meeting those likely suffices to show employees are working.

Talk to a Lawyer

If you are considering hiring employees and have concerns about this or any other aspect of business operations, speak to a lawyer. Get guidance.

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Related Resources:

• Find Business and Commercial Lawyers Near You (FindLaw's Lawyer Directory)
• Business Start-Up Checklist (FindLaw's Learn About the Law)
• Start-Up Basics (FindLaw's Learn About the Law)
• Starting a Business: Do's and Don'ts (FindLaw's Learn About the Law)